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Swimmer Rescues Dog Attacked By Alligator In Berkeley County: Report

by Nikki Gaskins Campbell
Pictured: American Alligator (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – A swimmer didn’t hesitate to rescue his dog after an alligator attacked it Friday afternoon in Berkeley County.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources told WCBD-TV that a man was swimming in Lake Moultrie near The Hatchery in Pinopolis with his dog when a gator attempted to turn the pup into a meal.

When the gator attacked his dog, the owner stepped in to save it, sustaining minor injuries in the process. However, his dog survived and is said to be doing fine, SCDNR told the TV station.

The alligator was removed from the area, state wildlife officers said. Its size was not immediately disclosed.

Capable of reaching lengths of up to 16 feet and weighing as much as 1,000 pounds, the American alligator is the only crocodilian native to South Carolina, according to state wildlife officials.

Because alligators are carnivorous, they prey on any animal that is available, including dogs and cats. They are most dangerous in or near the edge of water, wildlife experts warn.

Nearly any body of water in the coastal plain of South Carolina may contain alligators. With that in mind, SCDNR offers these safety tips:

  • Keep pets out of the water, even in designated swimming areas, if alligators are present. Pets are more susceptible to being attacked as they resemble normal prey items for alligators. Do not swim with your dog as it can attract the attention of alligators.
  • Avoid swimming in areas known to harbor large alligators. As the size of an alligator increases, so does the size of prey that it can consume.
  • Don’t swim or play in the water between dusk and dawn in areas with alligators. Alligators normally are more active during the night and can mistake splashing noises for prey.
  • Only swim in areas designated for swimming. Higher levels of human activity found in designated swimming areas typically make alligators keep their distance.
  • Never swim alone, not just because of alligators, but also as a normal safety measure.
  • Don’t approach an alligator, keep your distance and leave them alone. Alligators can move in quick bursts over short distances but normally do not try to run after people. If an alligator hisses, it’s a warning that you are too close.
  • Never feed alligators. Not only is it illegal in South Carolina to feed alligators, it also teaches them to associate people with food.

If an alligator is causing problems, contact the nearest state DNR office. In Berkeley County, that number is (843) 953-9856. For an after-hours emergency, call 1-800-922-5431.
Nikki Gaskins Campbell
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